How To Troubleshoot the Washing Machine

Washing machines have a number of different systems that need to work together as a single unit. But, because there are 3 different systems, it is easier to locate and repair a problem.

Basic Systems of a Washing Machine

A. The plumbing system. Brings in and circulates water through the pump and a system of hoses. B. The electrical system. Provides and distributes power to the washing machine through the control switches, motor, timer, and wiring. C. The mechanical system. Transmission, drive belt, agitator, and tub.

Use the following steps and procedures if the water doesn’t stop filling in your washing machine.

Caution: To prevent an electrical hazard, unplug the power cord from the wall socket IMMEDIATELY.

There are only three possible problems with your washer if it overflows and does not stop filling with water. The Water Inlet Valve, the Water Level Switch, and the Timer.

Water Inlet Valve

Unplug the Washing Machine: If water continues to fill, the valve is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Lift the Top and remove the back panel.

Remove the Screws while holding in inlet valve to the corner bracket and the washer cabinet. Remove it by unscrewing the clamp securing the hose to the inlet port.

Push the Inlet Valve down into the machine and tip to remove it completely.

Install the New Inlet Valve: Place inside of washer.

Tip the valve slightly backward.

Slide the Valve into place with two sheet metal screws.

Connect the Washer Hose to the inlet valve, tighten and check for leaks.

Water Level Switch

Remove the Water Level switch control knob.

Remove the Tube from the switch port.

Unscrew the Water Level switch bracket and remove.

Align the Tab Markers in the console with the new switch.

Screw the Bracket of the new switch inside the console.

Reconnect the Air Hose and the terminal wires.

Push on the Control knob.

Reattach the Console and do not forget to place the plug into the electric outlet.

Faulty Timer.

Unplug washing machine and remove the control console.

Remove the Switch cover by depressing the attaching tabs.

Verify Which Wires are used to control the cycle. Label and disconnect the wires from the terminal.

Remove the Screw that secures the switch to the casing.

Carefully pull it free from the timer.

Insert the new timer switch.

Secure to Housing: Reattach the wires removed.

Replace the control console.

Plug in your washing machine and verify it works.

CONTROL CONSOLE. This is common to all three steps above. To remove the Control Console, you must remove the retaining screws from the bottom front corners of the console. The screws may be hidden by a strip of adhesive trim. Other washers may have screws on the top or back of the console.

Washing machines appear complex, and intimidating. But isolating the problem and taking one step at a time it can be a simple process to isolate the problem and restore your washing machine to like new condition. Washing machines are very heavy. If you need to lay the machine on the floor, get someone to help you. This is more applicable for older machines where access to the internal parts is gained through the bottom.